Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Features-packed and slick to use, designed to be a versatile streaming source for home audio set-up
- Offers clear, spacious, and balanced sound
- App (StreamMagic) is easy to use, responsive, smooth, clean and intuitive
- Solid build quality, with a slightly taller and thicker casing than previous models, and a larger screen
- Good selection of inputs and features, with an exhaustive streaming feature set, including HDMI eARC
Product Considerations
- No analogue input
- The EXN100 does not come with a remote control
- The matching EXA100 amp has a lot of functionality overlap with the EXN100
- The CXN100 can do many of the same things as the EXN100
- The better the quality of the music tracks, the better it performs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs CXN100: Better build quality, better DAC, eARC, and a better screen
- Vs HiFi Rose 250: A better price point and a better DAC (ESS Sabre reference vs ESS Sabre pro)
- Vs WiiM Ultra: A full-size hifi component with better build quality and preamp functionality
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio EXN100 is a well-built and easy-to-use streamer with great sound quality and a comprehensive set of features, making it an ideal versatile streaming source. Its clear presentation and ease of use make it a good choice for those looking for a top-tier streamer.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
EXN100
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- DAC: ESS ES9028Q2M
- Display Screen: 4.76" IPS TFT - 1280 x 569
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 430 x 90 x 305mm
- Weight: 4.1kg
- THD @ 1kHz 0dBFs: < 0.0005 %
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz +/- 0.1dB
- Crosstalk @1kHz: < -120dB
- Signal to Noise Ratio: > 120dB
- Max Power Consumption: 30W
- Standby Power Consumption: Network Standby: >2W ; Eco mode: <0.5W
- Bluetooth: 5.0 with aptX HD
Description
EXN100 is the music-streaming brains of your new EX system, delivering an experience that goes beyond CX. Expertly refined at our London HQ, the EX range is a leap forward – its performance is rivalled only by our flagship Edge series.
EX-Stream Excellence
EXN100 is the music-streaming brains of your new EX system, delivering an experience that goes beyond CX. Expertly refined at our London HQ, the EX range is a leap forward – its performance is rivalled only by our flagship Edge series.
Close-up of a sleek black and silver device knob labeled EXN
Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger
Our team of audio experts pushed the ESS Reference DAC from the celebrated CXN100 to its limits, meticulously fine-tuning every element of the signal path. Put simply: we took the best and made it breathtaking.
Cambridge Audio music streamer displayed on a wooden cabinet
Wirelessly Stream a World of Music
Effortlessly explore a universe of sound with seamless support for Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer, Qobuz, Internet Radio, and more – thanks to our cutting-edge StreamMagic platform. It's Roon Ready, too. Whatever your playlist, the EXN100 reveals new depths to every note.
Get Yourself Connected
EXN100 makes connecting a variety of sources simple, with HDMI eARC too – so you can elevate the audio from your favourite TV shows and movies. It's a sound upgrade you'll feel as much as hear.
Cambridge Audio setup in a modern living room
Cambridge Audio amplifier and turntable with vinyl record on a wooden surface
In the Air Tonight
Cut the cords without cutting the quality. Enjoy aptX HD Bluetooth for rich, wireless streaming from de...
EXN100 is the music-streaming brains of your new EX system, delivering an experience that goes beyond CX. Expertly refined at our London HQ, the EX range is a leap forward – its performance is rivalled only by our flagship Edge series.
Close-up of a sleek black and silver device knob labeled EXN
Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger
Our team of audio experts pushed the ESS Reference DAC from the celebrated CXN100 to its limits, meticulously fine-tuning every element of the signal path. Put simply: we took the best and made it breathtaking.
Cambridge Audio music streamer displayed on a wooden cabinet
Wirelessly Stream a World of Music
Effortlessly explore a universe of sound with seamless support for Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer, Qobuz, Internet Radio, and more – thanks to our cutting-edge StreamMagic platform. It's Roon Ready, too. Whatever your playlist, the EXN100 reveals new depths to every note.
Get Yourself Connected
EXN100 makes connecting a variety of sources simple, with HDMI eARC too – so you can elevate the audio from your favourite TV shows and movies. It's a sound upgrade you'll feel as much as hear.
Cambridge Audio setup in a modern living room
Cambridge Audio amplifier and turntable with vinyl record on a wooden surface
In the Air Tonight
Cut the cords without cutting the quality. Enjoy aptX HD Bluetooth for rich, wireless streaming from de...
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Cambridge Audio incorporates high-quality components, such as toroidal transformers and ESS Sabre DAC chips, but they make sure that the components are chosen for their sonic character, rather than measured performance.
- With some lines receiving 5-year warranties with product registration, they convey a commitment to product durability, even when their products are sold through hifi stores, which are not generally known for high-end clientele.
Select products
Select product comparisons
AXA25
- Positioning: The entry-level integrated stereo amplifier in Cambridge Audio's lineup.
- Description: Offers a straightforward design with 25 watts per channel, making it ideal for small rooms and budget-conscious users. Unlike the more advanced models like the EXA100, it lacks digital inputs and Bluetooth connectivity, focusing instead on simplicity and analog connections, which suits users who prioritize basic functionality over advanced features.
Evo 75
- Positioning: The mid-range streaming amplifier in the Evo series.
- Description: Combines streaming capabilities with a powerful 75-watt amplifier, offering a compact solution for modern audio needs. It features the StreamMagic Gen 4 module for seamless streaming, unlike the AXA25, which lacks streaming capabilities.
EXA100
- Positioning: The high-end integrated amplifier in the EX series, offering advanced features and performance.
- Description: Delivers 100 watts per channel with Class AB amplification, providing a wide and detailed soundstage. It includes digital inputs like HDMI eARC and Bluetooth aptX HD, unlike the AXA25, which focuses on analog connections.
Edge A
- Positioning: The flagship integrated amplifier in Cambridge Audio's lineup, representing the pinnacle of their audio engineering.
- Description: Features proprietary Class XA amplification and twin toroidal transformers for exceptional power and clarity. It offers a more refined sound than the EXA100, with a focus on musicality and detail.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
246
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
9
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
40
Founding Year
1968
Our take on the brand
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
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Cambridge Audio
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What if you spend more?
AURALiC
Altair G1.1
3249
3249
/
7
Reviews
AURALiC is a hifi audio brand focusing on streaming audio sources with user-friendly interfaces. The company uses its proprietary Lightning DS music playing app to provide easy integration and customization of your music library.
Expand Details
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Product Strengths
- Well-constructed with a chassis made from thick anodised aluminum plates
- Ready to work with the vast majority of signal formats and sources in the digital realm
- Excellent sound quality that is accurate, unforced, clean, detailed, and natural
- Easy to set up and simple to use with a streamlined design
- Integrates a DAC, preamplifier, server, and wireless streamer into one unit
Product Considerations
- The Lightning DS app is only compatible with iOS devices
- Has no digital outputs for connecting external DACs, master clocks, and DDCs
- Using the internal digital volume control drops performance down a little
- No remote control is provided, but a smart remote control can be programmed to control a host of functions
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus Gustard R26, the AURALiC Altair G1.1 has almost identical sound quality, but it is better built and has a color screen and DSP engine
- The Altair G1.1 is not as refined or revealing as the AURALiC Aries G1.1 with a good DAC
- The AURALiC Altair G1.1 has more air and insight than a Naim streamer
Takeaway: The AURALiC Altair G1.1 is a superbly constructed streaming DAC that is easy to hook up and provides a simple hifi solution. Offering excellent sound quality with a clean and natural character, it makes it a great choice for those looking for a one-box digital solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
AURALiC is a hifi audio brand focusing on streaming audio sources with user-friendly interfaces. The company uses its proprietary Lightning DS music playing app to provide easy integration and customization of your music library.
Product Page
Product Page
Audiolab
9000N
3499
3499
/
7
Reviews
Audiolab is a hifi brand known for its unique streaming platform from Pixel Magic, which enables over-the-air updates and wide audio format compatibility including DSD. Their amplifiers and components feature distinctive capabilities like HDMI ARC inputs, user-selectable digital filters for sound customization, and advanced filtering technology in their pre/power amps.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Delivers class-leading precision and insight, with an impressively even and insightful presentation
- Offers expressive dynamics, and fine build and finish
- Presents a clear, crisp, detailed presentation of digital music with alluring musicality
- The sound is exceptionally natural and true, with a welcome lack of tonal hardness and glare
- Impressively transparent and shifts character depending on the recording being played
Product Considerations
- Lacks Bluetooth and Chromecast support
- Has no coax or optical digital inputs
- The Audiolab app is considered fine, but not quite up to the standard of pricier alternatives in terms of visual elegance
- The dedicated Audiolab 9000N app proves stable and fairly intuitive, though its presentation can look cluttered
- Some may want more specific features or integration capabilities
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Naim ND5 XS2: The 9000N's presentation is cleaner, larger-scale, and more spacious, whereas the Naim delivers music in a more robust and condensed manner
- Vs AURALiC ALTAIR G2.1: The 9000N was often slightly superior regarding clarity and separation between individual instruments and voices
- Vs Eversolo DMP-A8: The 9000N sounds more refined and fleshier
- Vs Cyrus Stream XR: The Audiolab supports fewer streaming services and is less suitable for multiroom, but supports formats that Bluesound has no means of doing, and combined with adjustable filters and plenty of scope to how you see and access your content—it's a much more 'tweaky' option
Takeaway: The Audiolab 9000N is a strong performer that delivers excellent sound quality and precision, making it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality standalone streamer. It offers an enjoyable listening experience with its natural sound and impressive dynamics.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audiolab is a hifi brand known for its unique streaming platform from Pixel Magic, which enables over-the-air updates and wide audio format compatibility including DSD. Their amplifiers and components feature distinctive capabilities like HDMI ARC inputs, user-selectable digital filters for sound customization, and advanced filtering technology in their pre/power amps.
Product Page
Product Page
AURALiC
Aries G1.1
3249
3249
/
6
Reviews
AURALiC is a hifi audio brand focusing on streaming audio sources with user-friendly interfaces. The company uses its proprietary Lightning DS music playing app to provide easy integration and customization of your music library.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Solid build quality using quality materials like thick aluminum plates and an anodized silver base plate for improved damping of vibrations.
- Clear and open soundstage with very good layer separation, providing a neutral and high-resolution output.
- Controlled using the Lightning DS app (iOS only), which is considered intuitive and easy to navigate with attractive album artwork display.
- Supports a wide array of streaming services and platforms, including Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, Amazon Music, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, and Roon.
- Ability to rip and play CDs via a USB disc drive, offering thorough error detection and correction during the ripping process
Product Considerations
- The Lightning DS app is only supported on Apple iOS devices, which may disappoint Android and Windows users.
- The display is considered okay but not as sharp or vibrant as some cheaper alternatives, and the small settings text may be difficult to read for some users.
- Some users may find that the benefits are not fully realized unless paired with a system of a certain caliber (DAC, amp, speakers).
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. AURALiC Aries Mini—the G1.1 offers improved performance, with reduced lag in the app and increased processing power.
- Vs. EverSolo DMP-A6—the ARIES G1.1 has a more open presentation, greater staging, and more space.
- Vs. AURALiC Aries G1—the G1.1 extracts a more polished, clean, and refined result and is melodically superior.
- Vs. Melco N10 (direct USB output)—the ARIES G1.1 adds substance and focus to the sound, making imaging more precise and timing pacier and engaging compared to the direct output of the Melco.
Takeaway: The AURALiC Aries G1.1 is a well-featured streaming transport that delivers a high-quality and neutral sound, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles looking to upgrade their digital source, with particular emphasis on high-quality digital to analog converters or full systems. With its comprehensive feature set and intuitive app, it's designed to be a versatile and user-friendly addition to any system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
AURALiC is a hifi audio brand focusing on streaming audio sources with user-friendly interfaces. The company uses its proprietary Lightning DS music playing app to provide easy integration and customization of your music library.
Product Page
Product Page
Matrix Audio
Element M2/Element M2S
3099
3099
/
4
Reviews
Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Stylish and clean design with good build quality
- Good and well-resolved sound structure
- Supports various streaming services like Tidal, Qobuz, and Spotify Connect, and is Roon Ready
- Offers a wide range of digital inputs (Coaxial, Optical, I2S LVDS, USB B, HDMI ARC) and outputs (balanced XLR and single-ended RCA)
Product Considerations
- The touchscreen is functional, but small, making operation difficult
- The app is not as elegant as it looks and lacks a search function for internet radio
- Leans slightly clinical, with some brightness, possibly needing more weight and authority in the low end for some users
- High output impedance on the headphone outputs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs AURALiC Altair G1.1, soundstage dimensions are some way off AURALiC Altair G1.1, and doesn't have the same depth
- Vs Naim ND5 XS 2, bass is not on par with Naim, but is not far off—soundstage is slightly larger
- Vs Wattson Madison, has tighter bass with more punch and power
Takeaway: The Element M2 is a versatile all-in-one product with great sound quality and numerous connection options, perfect for those who want a single device to handle streaming and audio needs. It supports various music services and offers a user-friendly experience, making it a worthwhile addition to any hifi audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.
Product Page
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What competes at this price?
Cambridge Audio
CXN100
1099
/
Released
2024
We shouldn't have favourites but CXN100 is something else. Hi-fi specialists and our listeners alike loved its predecessor CXN V2 – just wait until they hear this. CXN100 will instantly transform a classic hi-fi stack into a system with a bright future. And because it's a network device, CXN100's firmware can be upgraded remotely, via our StreamMagic app, to receive the latest services.
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clean, precise, and articulate sound with ample detail
- Expansive and open soundstage
- StreamMagic control app is stable, logical, user-friendly, and easy to navigate
- Features AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, and internet radio
Product Considerations
- Loses a touch of its predecessor's sonic solidity and warmth
- Does not include HDMI ARC
- Bluetooth is only compatible with SBC and AAC codecs
- Can be provoked by careless system-matching with bright, treble-centric equipment
- Volume is not controlled through the StreamMagic app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- CXN100 has improved clarity, precision, and spaciousness, but is missing some of the CXN (V2)'s sonic solidity and warmth, compared to the Cambridge Audio CXN (V2)
- CXN100 trades off detail functionality to offer a user experience that is polished and genuinely pleasurable, and is able to take less than stellar recordings and avoid sounding strident or aggressive a little better than the EverSolo DMP-A6
- CXN100 has better low end and a slightly greater perception of space, compared to the Cambridge Audio MXN10
- CXN100 has a more natural quality to vocals with better realism and less fatigue, compared to the Bluesound Node
Takeaway: The CXN100 is a user-friendly and feature-rich music streamer that provides clear and detailed sound. It is an excellent choice for those seeking to add modern streaming capabilities to a classic hifi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Product Page
Product Page
AURALiC
Altair G2.1
2439
/
Released
2021
ALTAIR G2.1, an all-encompassing digital and analog source component, provides abundant capabilities to the performance-oriented G2.1 Series. Combining every function available from AURALiC into the ultra-quiet G2.1 chassis, ALTAIR G2.1 is perfect for the most demanding music lover. Whether it's a high-res title from an online streaming service, a file on a NAS drive, or an LP on a turntable, ALTAIR G2.1 will deliver exquisitely rendered, dynamic music, from almost any source.
AURALiC is a hifi audio brand focusing on streaming audio sources with user-friendly interfaces. The company uses its proprietary Lightning DS music playing app to provide easy integration and customization of your music library.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Solid digital sound, good authority, solid bass, and a weighty sound with good scale
- Excellent clarity, very good timing, and a very good soundstage
- Outstanding build quality—solidly made and near indestructible
- Versatile unit that can become the hub of the digital audio world
- Clean and effortless digital processing
- Connectivity options
Product Considerations
- The Lightning DS app is only available for iOS
- The 4-inch non-touch screen is adequate, but not exceptional
- When written instructions feature on the screen, the words can be small and difficult to see
- The alphabetical order of the albums is not followed when used with an external hard drive
- Some reviewers felt a need for a high-end turntable setup, as the analog input feeds directly to the analog output stage—bypassing the digital stage altogether
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs NAD M10 V2: The Altair offers a step up in sound quality
- Vs AURALiC Aries G1: The Altair G2.1 chassis is a significant upgrade with an internal copper sub-chassis, tuned feet, and a solid steel base
Takeaway: The AURALiC Altair G2.1 is a versatile and well-built streaming DAC preamplifier that offers a clean and detailed sound. Comprehensive features and excellent sound quality make it a great choice for audiophiles looking for an all-in-one solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
AURALiC is a hifi audio brand focusing on streaming audio sources with user-friendly interfaces. The company uses its proprietary Lightning DS music playing app to provide easy integration and customization of your music library.
Product Page
Product Page
Matrix Audio
Element i2
1580
/
Released
2022
Although element i2 is the entry-level model of the element music streamer, it shares a wide range of technologies with other models in the series, which further narrows the differences of specs between it and higher models. Rich usage scenario settings, complete music playback functionalities, and flexible input and output interfaces make element i2 an excellent companion for your entertainment and gaming.
Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Top-of-the-line streaming features in a well-constructed package
- Built-in preamp with 10dB analog gain resulting in great measurements for dynamic listening sessions
- Offers comprehensive streaming functionality with Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Internet Radio, Podcast, VTuner, External Library Access via network or USB, RuneReady, DLNA, Airplay 2, and more
- Improved I/O including a new ARC HDMI port and a USB-C port for external storage
Product Considerations
- The remote that comes with the X2 doesn't come paired already to the device, it requires manual pairing
- Instructions on how to pair the remote to the device are not very clear and might be difficult to find
- The sound signature might be too forward for some listeners, requiring pairing with warmer headphones for genres like R&B, EDM, or heavy metal
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Element X (original), the Element X2 has increased streaming functionality, added touchscreen, improved power measurements, and better I/O
- Compared to the Element M2, the Element X2 has a better DAC chip, better CPU, a built-in pre-amp, and the RCA input feature
- Compared to the Element i2, the Element X2 has a better DAC chip, better CPU, and a built-in preamp
Takeaway: The Element X2 is a feature-rich music streamer with a detailed and forward sound signature, offering a wide range of streaming options and improved power. It is a great choice for those seeking a top-tier all-in-one streaming experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Matrix Audio is a hifi brand known for their DACs and streamers that feature a unique H-shaped chassis design for mechanical stability and circuit optimization. Their products include built-in NVMe SSD storage slots and natively integrate HIGHRESAUDIO streaming, while offering control through their proprietary MA Remote App and MA Player software system.
Product Page
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iFi
NEO Stream
1299
/
Released
2022
Fusing the NEO iDSD's award-winning DAC with our proprietary network streaming technology, the NEO Stream becomes a high-resolution digital audio hub, designed for enthusiasts.
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Fantastic sound quality and usability for the price
- Easy to set up and use
- Includes the OptiBox, which improves sound quality via optical Ethernet connection
- Streams hi-res files and DSD without converting to PCM first
- Has a custom DAC that sounds phenomenal
Product Considerations
- There can be occasional lag when switching songs
- No hardware remote is supplied
- The screen is on the smaller side and may be difficult to see at a distance
- The NEO Stream is not an all-in-one media hub, as it doesn't have any other inputs aside from network and USB storage, and it doesn't work as a DAC for other sources
- No Bluetooth capability
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Bluesound Node, the iFi NEO Stream has a larger, more organic sound and a wider soundstage
- Compared to the Cambridge Audio CXN V2, the Cambridge has S/PDIF inputs (coaxial and optical) like the NEO, but includes a Type-B USB input for its DAC, and also has balanced XLR stereo outputs, but lacks the iFi's more advanced networking connectivity
Takeaway: The iFi NEO Stream is an impressive streaming DAC. It offers great sound quality, multiple features and makes enjoying high-quality streamed audio easy.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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PS Audio
Stellar
2199
/
Released
2023
Stellar DAC brings wonderful imaging and musicality to any high-performance system at a price you can afford. Stellar DAC embodies everything PS Audio has strived for in high-value electronics. From its clean and rich tonal balance to its wickedly wonderful imaging, this DAC can be the centerpiece of your music system.
PS Audio is a well-known American brand with a strong following among enthusiasts, due in part to the educational YouTube videos produced by its founder. The company offers products across a wide range of categories, each developed with input from top engineers, resulting in unique sonic signatures. PS Audio’s offerings frequently appear on top 10 lists from professional reviewers, with many products recognized for their high-quality performance and innovative design.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Top-tier packaging and sound quality
- Detailed, modern, and holographic sound
- Excellent soundstage
- Remote control can also manage PS Audio DAC
Product Considerations
- Requires about an hour to reach peak performance when powered on using the back switch
- Soundstage might not suit all tastes, which is subjective
- Top-end extension is slightly less extended
- Bass is slightly less punchy
Takeaway: The Stellar Gold Preamp is a great choice for those seeking a modern and transparent sound with good dynamics in their audio system and a smooth, non-aggressive presentation. It especially shines with recordings that have a good soundstage, making the performance feel convincingly real.
Product Strengths
- Great, ear-pleasing sound
- Easy to use, especially with the remote control
- Offers loading presets and custom loading options for moving coil cartridges
- Low noise performance
- Clarity of sound
- Good depth of field for its price
Product Considerations
- Sensitive to grounding, ultra-low capacitance cables, RF, and other interference
- Does not have adjustable resistive and capacitive loading for fixed-coil/high-output cartridges
- Can have a high-pitched noise if cables are not oriented well
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Stellar sounds more interesting than the Cambridge Audio Alva Duo
- The Stellar is not as bright as the iFi iPhono3 Black Label
- Bass extension and grip are not as powerful as more expensive phono preamps
Takeaway: The Stellar Phono Preamplifier delivers great sound and an enjoyable user experience with its flexible settings and remote control, making it a worthy addition to any vinyl lover's system. Its clarity and low noise floor allow listeners to fully appreciate the nuances of their record collection.
Product Strengths
- High damping factor for bass control and plenty of headroom
- Near-perfect linearity, low distortion, and high efficiency
- Neutral and colorless tonal balance
- Combines speed and power with a bass-range grip
Product Considerations
- Lacks the epic bass extension and hard-core slam of more expensive amplifiers
- Top end lacks the effortless harmonic bloom of other amplifiers
Takeaway: The PS Audio Stellar S300 is an excellent choice for a powerful, clean, and neutral-sounding amplifier. It offers high performance and finesse, delivering dynamic contrasts and excellent bass control, making it a worthwhile addition to any high-end audio setup.
Product Strengths
- Musicality and cohesiveness to music
- Nice drive with solid dynamics and 3-D imaging
- Delivers impressive drive with solid dynamics and 3-D imaging, accompanied by nice depth in both soundstage and low frequencies
Product Considerations
- I2S input is not HDMI compatible
Takeaway: The PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC/Preamp is a great choice for an DAC/Preamp that makes music easy and joyful to listen to. This product allows for great flexibility with its full-featured options and can become the centerpiece of a hifi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
PS Audio is a well-known American brand with a strong following among enthusiasts, due in part to the educational YouTube videos produced by its founder. The company offers products across a wide range of categories, each developed with input from top engineers, resulting in unique sonic signatures. PS Audio’s offerings frequently appear on top 10 lists from professional reviewers, with many products recognized for their high-quality performance and innovative design.
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